Bristol Rugby scrum-half Ruki Tipuna has signed a two-year deal with Newcastle Falcons ahead of the 2014-15 season.

Tipuna, 30, who has made more than 60 appearances for Bristol since joining from Llanelli Scarlets in November 2011, adds pace, creativity and an excellent kicking game to the Falcons' backline. He becomes English qualified in October, has been a mainstay of a Bristol side that has cemented itself at the top of the table.

"I'm really excited at the prospect of testing myself against the very best in the Premiership," Tipuna said. "Newcastle certainly have a bright future under Dean Richards and I'm looking forward to helping the club move up to the next level. My focus at the moment is with my current club Bristol, and I want to help them achieve their ambition of playing in the Premiership.

Newcastle director of rugby Dean Richards said: "Ruki is a quality signing for the club, whose experience and skillset will be invaluable for the club. I'm looking forward to welcoming him to Kingston Park in the summer, and he is an exciting talent that will relish playing for Newcastle."